Fragile X-related protein family: a double-edged sword in neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Neuroscience
• Oncology

Background:

• The fragile X-related (FXR) protein family, including FMRP, FXR1, and FXR2, are homologous RNA-binding proteins vital for RNA metabolism, neuronal plasticity, and muscle development.
• FXR proteins are implicated in fragile X mental retardation syndrome (FXS), the most common genetic cause of autism spectrum disorder.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the FXR protein family's role in FXS, other mental illnesses, and cancer.
• To highlight recent findings on novel RNA and protein targets and their implications for neurological disorders and cancer biology.
• To discuss contrasting functions of FXR proteins in FXS and tumorigenesis based on human tissue expression patterns.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and recent findings on FXR protein family.
• Analysis of FXR protein expression patterns in human tissues.
• Identification of novel RNA and protein targets associated with FXR proteins.

Main Results:

• FXR proteins play a critical role in FXS and are implicated in other mental illnesses and cancer.
• Recent discoveries have identified novel RNA and protein targets, advancing understanding of neurological disorders and cancer biology.
• Expression patterns in human tissues suggest contrasting roles for FXR proteins in FXS and tumorigenesis.

Conclusions:

• The FXR protein family has complex and potentially contrasting roles in FXS and cancer.
• Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps regarding FXR proteins in FXS and cancer.
• Future studies aim to translate findings from basic research to clinical applications for patients.